Virtual Program Brings Creativity To Remote Classrooms

October 6, 2016

From virtual theatre to online music programs to an interactive history app, Victorian students and teachers in remote locations are set to benefit from Australia’s first virtual creative school residencies program.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley today announced $150,000 for six pioneering projects that will support students in regional and remote areas to connect and collaborate with creative practitioners across Victoria using online tools and platforms.

A partnership between Creative Victoria and the Department of Education and Training,Virtual Creative Professionals in Schools is a pilot aiming to provide Victorian students in remote locations with access to the highest quality creative and learning experiences.

The supported projects, which will run across 2016 and the first half of 2017, will teach students and teachers new creative skills – from theatre making, to animation, song writing, storytelling and sculpture – while also providing training in the use of the latest technologies.

Horsham College – partnering with Australian Centre for Moving Image (ACMI)

Woodford Primary School – partnering with Olivia Guntarik

The supported projects will use the online programs and software currently being used by Australian creative practitioners to share their work and collaborate virtually with other artists and businesses across the globe.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley

“We’re bringing together Victoria’s leading artists with students in remote communities so more young people can be part of our creative state.”

“This is a great opportunity for our local creatives to reach new audiences and support budding young artists – all without leaving home.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino

“The Education State embeds creativity at the heart of the curriculum and at the centre of our classrooms. These projects will enhance learning, build skills, foster collaboration and develop career pathways.”

Ministerial Office

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Martin Foley MP acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of the nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.